Are you thinking about investing in a pre-owned CNC router? If so, it is important to assess the quality of the machine before you buy it. If you need assistance determining the value of a pre-owned woodworking machine, answering the questions below can help you make an accurate determination:
Who owned the machine?
Knowing the previous owner of the router can help you assess its state of wear. For example, if a factory owned the router, it probably received heavy use, but if it was owned by a non-commercial entity such as a trade school, it probably received light to moderate use.
How its previous owner operated the router can influence its longevity. You can discover the identity of the original owner by presenting the machine’s serial number to the manufacturer.
Why did the previous owner sell the machine?
Some used CNC routers are liquidated to make room for new machines, while others are sold because they have mechanical issues. The seller should be able to tell you why the router was sold. If the seller does not have this information, you can contact the previous owner.
Does the machine have a spotless maintenance record?
How well a machine is maintained is a major predictor of its reliability. If the router has periods of non-service in its maintenance record, its probability of malfunctioning is increased. Poorly maintained woodworking equipment can acquire a buildup of dust and grime on its components. If the buildup continues to accrue, it can cause the machinery to malfunction and prematurely age.
Has the machine been reconditioned?
Reconditioning improves the quality of a machine by cleaning its parts and replacing its worn components. Reconditioned routers are typically found through professional sellers of pre-owned machinery, not through amateur sellers or at auctions. A reconditioned product can truly perform as it did when it was new.
What is the remaining lifespan of the machine?
With proper maintenance and reconditioning, an industrial grade router can exceed its official lifespan, but it is safest to base the machine’s remaining lifespan as it is stated by the manufacturer. If you plan to use the router for the foreseeable future, choosing a machine that has a remaining lifespan of at least five years is the best idea.
How does the machine operate during a test run?
If possible, you should test the router before you buy it. You will not have the option of putting it through a full production run, but you can observe how it sounds as it operates. A machine that makes uncommon sounds should be subjected to further inspection.
RT Machine has the Equipment You Need
Buying pre-owned woodworking equipment is an excellent way to save money on industrial grade CNC routers, but you have to be careful about the type of machine you buy, and whom you buy it from. For over a decade, RT Machine has sold quality, used CNC routers to companies and individuals. Call us today to learn more about our products and services.
